Tuesday, December 17, 1996

Pamela Lee Leaving Baywatch

LOS ANGELES (AP) -- ``Baywatch'' star Pamela Anderson Lee is hanging up her red swimsuit.

After five years as lifeguard C.J. Parker on the internationally syndicated series, Ms. Lee said Tuesday she is leaving to pursue other projects, including an autobiography she's calling ``Pamdemonium.''

``Giving birth to my son Brandon has opened my mind to explore many new personal and professional opportunities,'' she said in a statement, adding that she feels compelled to diversify her career.

``I have no expectations about becoming a big `movie star.' I just want to continue working in all areas of the entertainment business and continue to be involved with high quality projects,'' she said.

There were no hard feelings in public from the show's producer and distributor.

``We love Pamela and we wish her the very best in her new endeavors and appreciate the contribution she's made to the show,'' said Syd Vinnedge, vice president of All American Communications.

In addition to her role on ``Baywatch,'' she has posed for Playboy and spent two seasons as the Tool Time Girl on the TV series ``Home Improvement.''

Ms. Lee filed for divorce last month from Motley Crue drummer Tommy Lee, whom she married in February 1995 after a four-day courtship. A spokeswoman later said they were trying to reconcile, but on Monday Ms. Lee said on ``The Tonight Show with Jay Leno'' Dec. 9 that she didn't know if it would work out.